Things To Do In Destin Florida When It Rains
As we said, rain happens sometimes. The good news is that it is unlikely to rain for long. The locals reference something called the “Destin Dome,” meaning it rains everywhere around Destin while the city itself stays dry.
So, if you do get some showers, you may only need to fill a couple of hours. Here are the best things you can do:
Fat Daddy’s Arcade
Fat Daddy’s Arcade is the perfect rainy day location for kids of all ages!
With over 120 arcade games, both new releases and classic games, there is a little bit of fun for all gaming styles.
Interactive games include The Walking Dead, Jurassic Park, Pac-Man Smash Line, Fruit Ninja, Jumping Jackpot, Big Buck Hunter Open Season, Terminator Salvation, and more.
Whether you’re in Destin with the kids or visiting as a couple or with other adults, Fat Daddy’s will keep you all entertained.
Destin History and Fishing Museum
Destin Florida is a charming, unique city with a rather fascinating history.
A rainy day visit to the Destin History and Fishing Museum is as interesting as it is educational!
With a visit to the museum, you can learn the history of the Destin Fishing Rodeo, how it got started and what it continues to mean to the Destin community.
Diving and snorkeling are popular activities in Destin. The first divers moved to the area in the 1950s and the Diving in Destin exhibit will show a complete history.
And finally, stop by the Mike Long Memorial Fish Wall to see over 100 fish mounts, all caught in the waters around Destin. The mural will help you understand the regional water depths and why these particular Gulf shores have some of the best fishing in the entire Gulf of Mexico.
Uncle Buck’s FishBowl and Grill
Bowling in the ocean, is anything better? Yes, you read that correctly. Uncle Buck’s Fishbowl and Grill is an underwater ocean-themed bowling alley!
So, if the rain is keeping you from snorkeling or visiting Henderson Beach, you can still enjoy the ocean views indoors!
Each lane features underwater scenery, including sea turtles, sharks, stingrays, and more. Custom bowling balls are designed to look like sea creatures, like octopuses and mermaids. And the floor-to-ceiling murals will have you feeling like you’ve stepped off the land and into an underwater paradise.
And when you’re done bowling, you can visit the grill for some incredible eats. Appetizers, pizza, cocktails, there really are no wrong choices here. This truly is fun for the whole family!
Emerald Coast Science Center
Don’t let a little rain get in the way of a little learning! The Emerald Coast Science Center has fascinating and interactive exhibits for people of all ages.
The goal of the science center is to create a scientifically engaged community and they have gone out of their way to maintain this engagement.
Exhibits include:
- When Dinosaurs Ruled the Earth: learn about dinos big and small, explore replica skulls and more
- Robotics: complete with interactive robotics units
- Engineering, Physics, and Electricity: including an Augmented Reality Wall, air cannon, Hurricane Simulator
- Sea Turtle Sanctuary: learn about the life of sea turtles in Northwest Florida and explore the interactive sea floor.
- Color, Light, and Sound: learn about the properties of light and color. Have you ever used a light spectrum to make music? Have you ever tried to make a bubble that is taller than you? Give it a try at this exhibit
- Space: properly explore the final frontier without leaving this planet.
That is just a few of the exhibits you can explore! Not every exhibit is open at all times so check ahead of you do have your heart set on one. But even if that exhibit is closed, there is plenty to see and do at the Center.
Rock Climbing
Rock Out Climbing Gym is the best climbing facility on the Gulf Coast. Being stuck inside doesn’t mean you have to give up on being active.
This is a straight-up boulder gym. This means straight climbing, no harness, no ropes.
If you enjoy activities that get your heart pumping and push your limits, this is a good place to start. And don’t worry, if this is your first time, their First Visit Bundle includes orientation and a fall class so you can challenge yourself as safely as possible!
Shopping
There is great shopping on the Destin Harbor Boardwalk, but this is not an ideal location when it is raining.
If you have access to a vehicle, consider driving about 9 miles out of town to the Silver Sands Premium Outlets in Miramar Beach. With over 110 designer and name-brand outlet stores, this is the premier shopping destination from Pensacola to Panama City Beach.
From Nike to Coach, and with plenty of dining options, the Silver Sands Premium Outlet Mall is the perfect way to spend a rainy day.
When the Rain Clears, Call Destiny Water Adventures
As we said above, it isn’t always sunny in our little corner of the United States but it is never rainy for very long. And when the sun comes out again, you want to be prepared for all your desired beach and water activities. See this post where we cover things to do in Destin when it’s not raining.
At Destiny Water Adventures, we have top-of-the-line pontoon boats, kayaks and paddleboards, and jet skis for rent. If you don’t want to explore on your own, you can choose from one of our stellar packages. You can go on a guided Dophlin Jetski tour, a Crab Island Excursion, a Sunset Cruise, and more!
Whether you want to go out on your own and explore the Destin shoreline and Okaloosa Island, or you want our guides to show you the coolest, hidden places, we have you covered.
Give us a call at 850-750-9944 or come visit us in Fort Walton Beach.